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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Eala succumbs to Noskova in Berlin semifinal

Eala succumbs to Noskova in Berlin semifinal

Published Jun 21, 2026 01:14 am

At A Glance

  • Noskova, who previously beat Eala at Indian Wells last March, reaffirmed her mastery over the Filipina ace with her sharp serves to arrange a finals match against Jessica Pegula.
Alex Eala (File Photo/ AP)
Alex Eala (File Photo/ AP)
Alex Eala’s magical run at the rain-delayed 2026 Berlin Open came to an end in the semifinals as she bowed to world No. 13 Linda Noskova, 6-2, 6-4, in Germany on Sunday, June 21 (Philippine time).
Noskova, who previously beat Eala at Indian Wells last March, reaffirmed her mastery over the Filipina ace with her sharp serves to arrange a finals match against Jessica Pegula.
Despite the defeat, Eala impressed throughout the week with strong performances against top-level competition. She started her campaign with a 7-5, 6-4 win over 2024 Wimbledon semifinalist Donna Vekic, then stunned world No. 2 Elena Rybakina, 7-5, 6-4, and world No. 8 Elina Svitolina, 6-3, 6-4.
After the pair traded service breaks in the opening three games, Noskova settled into her rhythm and held serve in the fourth game before pulling away to a 3-1 lead, taking control of the opening set.
Eala fought back for 3-2, but the Czech standout responded by winning three games to secure the first frame.
Noskova carried that momentum into the second set, racing to a 3-1 advantage. Eala, however, refused to go quietly, battling back with three consecutive games to level the score at 4-all and put pressure on her opponent.
But Noskova proved steady in the closing stretch, claiming the next two games including a decisive break of Eala's serve in the final game to complete the victory.
Eala heads to the Bad Homburg Open in a few days where she is scheduled to meet multiple Grand Slam doubles champion Elise Mertens in the opening round.

Related Tags

Alex Eala Linda Noskova Berlin Open WTA
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